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Biodiesel Guidelines: From The Worldwide Fuel Charter Committee
Biodiesel Guidelines: From The Worldwide Fuel Charter Committee
European Automobile
Manufacturers Association
Avenue des Nerviens 85
B-1040 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: +32 2 732 55 50
Fax: +32 2 738 73 10
GUIDELINES
www.acea.be
Alliance of
Automobile Manufacturers
1401 Eye Street, N.W., Suite 900
Washington D.C., 20005
Tel: 1 (202) 326-5500
Fax: 1 (202) 326-5568
MARCH 2009 www.autoalliance.org
Engine Manufacturers
Association
Committee
Japan Automobile
Manufacturers Association
Jidosha Kiakan
1-30, Shiba Daimon 1-Chome
Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0012 Japan
Tel: +81-3-5405-6125
Fax: +81-3-5405-6136
For copies, please visit the association websites. www.japanauto.com
European Automobile
Alliance of Automobile Engine Manufacturers Japan Automobile Manufacturers
Manufacturers
Manufacturers Association Association
Association
March 2009
Subject: Worldwide Biofuels Harmonisation
Dear Biodiesel Guidelines Recipient:
On behalf of automobile and engine manufacturers from around the world, we are pleased to present this First
Edition of Biodiesel Guidelines from the Worldwide Fuel Charter (WWFC) Committee. We created the WWFC in
1998 to promote greater understanding of the impact of fuel quality on engine and vehicle emissions and
performance and to promote harmonization of fuel quality worldwide in accordance with engine and vehicle
needs in different markets.
Rapid growth in the use of ethanol and biodiesel prompted the WWFC Committee to address the need for more
information about these important renewable fuels. As with conventional gasoline and diesel fuel, biofuel quality
must match the needs and capabilities of engine and vehicle technologies, especially as these technologies
become more advanced to meet ultra‐clean emission standards. This document provides our guidance on
biodiesel quality; a companion document provides guidance on ethanol quality.
Given the wide variation in performance and measurement methods of biofuel blends at different blend levels,
this guidance focuses on the quality of the blendstock used to make finished biofuel blends, rather than on the
finished fuels themselves. Specifically, we created this document to guide blenders who produce and use 100%
biodiesel and diesel fuel blendstocks to make finished 5% biodiesel blends. The resulting finished fuels should
continue to meet the recommendations contained in the WWFC for the various categories of market fuels.
The use of ethanol and biodiesel fuels is important to help extend supplies of gasoline and diesel fuel. As
renewable fuels, they have the potential to help reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. Proper formulation also
can help assure lower emissions of conventional pollutants. The key to achieving low emissions is to sustainably
produce good quality blendstocks and to blend and distribute the finished fuels in a way that preserves their
quality when they reach the consumer.
This document represents our best collective judgment at this time, based on experience with biodiesel produced
from conventional feedstocks, such as rapeseed and soy and aided by comments from interested parties. We
recognize that its technical information will continue to evolve, so this document will also change as we learn
more. We appreciate the efforts of those who provided information and comments, and we are especially grateful
to those who expressed support for this endeavor.
We look forward to working with you to support the development and use of high quality renewable fuels for the
benefit of consumers and the environment worldwide.
Ivan Hodac Dave McCurdy Jed R. Mandel Yoshiyasu Nao
Secretary General President & CEO President President
ACEA Alliance EMA JAMA
List of Members
ACEA member companies
BMW Group, DAF Trucks NV, Daimler AG, Fiat SpA, Ford of Europe GmbH, General Motors Europe AG, MAN
Nutzfahrzeuge AG, Porsche AG, PSA Peugeot Citroën, Renault SA, Scania AB, Toyota Motor Europe,
Volkswagen AG, AB Volvo.
Alliance member companies
BMW of North America, Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, Jaguar Land Rover,
Mazda North American Operations, Mercedes‐Benz USA, Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America, Inc., Porsche Cars
North America, Inc., Toyota Motor North America, Inc., Volkswagen Group of America.
EMA member companies
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Briggs & Stratton Corporation, Caterpillar Inc., Chrysler LLC, CNH Global N.V.,
Cummins Inc., Daimler Trucks North America LLC, Deere & Company, Deutz Corporation, Dresser Waukesha,
Fiat Powertrain Technologies S.p.A, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, Hino Motors, Ltd.,
Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America, Inc., Kohler Company, Komatsu Ltd., Kubota Engine America
Corporation, MTU Detroit Diesel, Inc., Navistar, Inc., Onan–Cummins Power Generation, PACCAR Inc, Scania
CV AB, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc., Volvo Powertrain Corporation, Wärtsilä North America, Inc.,
Yamaha Motor Corporation, Yanmar America Corporation
JAMA member companies
Daihatsu Motor Co. Ltd., Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., Hino Motors Ltd., Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Isuzu Motors
Limited, Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd., Mazda Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus
Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Nissan Diesel Motor Co. Ltd., Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., Suzuki
Motor Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd.
Associate members
Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM)
Association of International Automotive Manufacturers of Canada (AIAMC)
Associacion Mexicana de la Industria Automotriz, A.C. (AMIA)
Brazilian Association of motor vehicle and motorised agricultural machinery manufacturers (ANFAVEA)
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association (CVMA)
Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI)
China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM)
Indonesia Automotive Federation (IAF)
Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association (KAMA)
National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA)
Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA)
Thai Automotive Industry Association (TAIA)
Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA)
Supporting organisations:
Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA)
ii
Acronyms
ABNT NBR Associação Brasileira de Normas Técnicas (Brazilian Standards Number)
ACEA Association des Constructeurs Européens d’Automobiles (European automotive
manufacturers association)
Alliance Alliance of Automobile Manufactures
ASTM ASTM International (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials)
Biodiesel This document defines biodiesel as an ester‐based fuel, created by reacting
vegetable or animal fats with alcohol, meeting certain specifications and able to
be used in diesel engines. Biodiesel is often synonymous with FAME.
BTL Biomass to Liquid
BXX Biodiesel blend containing a specified amount of biodiesel by volume (e.g., B20
contains 20% biodiesel by volume)
Ca Calcium
CEC Coordinating European Council for the Development of Performance Tests for
Transportation Fuels, Lubricants and Other Fluids
CEN/TR Comité European de Normalisation (European Committee for Standardization)
/Technical Report
DPF Diesel particulate filter
EMA Engine Manufacturers Association
EN European Norm
FAEE Fatty Acid Ethyl Ester
FAME Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
HVO Hydrotreated vegetable oil
ICP Inductively‐coupled plasma
ISO International Organization for Standardization
JAMA Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association
JIS Japanese Industrial Standards
K Potassium
KOH Potassium hydroxide
Mg Magnesium
mod Modified
Na Sodium
NaOH Sodium hydroxide
ppm Parts per million
prEN Provisional European Norm
PSA DW A family of PSA Group diesel engines manufactured for use in Peugeot and
Citroën automobiles.
TAN Total Acid Number
WWFC Worldwide Fuel Charter
iii
CONTENTS
Introduction .................................................................................................. 1
Guidelines for B100 Blendstock for use in up to B5 Blends ................................ 2
iv
Introduction
The purpose of the Worldwide Fuel Charter is to promote high quality and harmonized fuels on a global
basis, considering the need for optimum engine and vehicle performance and durability and for the
cleanest possible operation of engine and vehicle technologies. Meeting this objective will benefit
consumers, simplify fuel markets, facilitate trade and help governments meet public policy goals.
Biofuels are of particular interest today due to their potential to help reduce the use of petroleum‐based
fuels, improve energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biodiesel is one of these fuels that
is viable and in use today, along other promising alternative diesel fuels such as renewable diesel fuel
(hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)) and biomass to liquid (BTL) fuels. Good biodiesel quality is
fundamental to its continued success as a fuel. The guidance presented here contains manufacturer
recommendations regarding the biodiesel quality needed for proper engine and vehicle operation.
The recommended limits in these guidelines are specifically established for 100% biodiesel (B100)
blendstock intended for blending with petroleum‐based diesel fuel to make a blend containing a
maximum of 5% biodiesel by volume (B5) suitable for use in vehicles with compression ignition
engines. Higher level blends may require different specifications, labeling, and other controls to
adequately protect consumers. Finished biodiesel‐diesel fuel blends, as well as finished petroleum‐
based diesel fuel, should continue to meet the requirements of the appropriate diesel fuel category in
the Worldwide Fuel Charter.
Biodiesel quality changes over time due to the inherent nature of the fuel. Oxidation reactions begin to
affect the fuel as soon as the biodiesel is created. Storage conditions, especially temperature, exposure
to water and exposure to oxygen which is naturally present in ambient air, influence the rate of
oxidation. Anti‐oxidant additives can help slow this degradation process and improve fuel stability up to
a point. Their effectiveness depends on their addition to the biodiesel during or as soon after
production as practical. The overuse of anti‐oxidants can lead to the additional formation of sludge.
Thus, care must be taken in choosing the antioxidant type and amount for maximum effectiveness. It is
also critical for biodiesel blendstocks to meet the limits specified in this guidance. After blending,
distributors and retailers should avoid storing blends for excessive time periods or under adverse
conditions, and they should monitor the blends’ quality at least until the fuel is transported or sold.
These guidelines are based on engine and vehicle manufacturer experience with biodiesel fuels made
from feedstocks commonly used today in various markets around the world. The guidelines are
performance‐based and feedstock‐neutral. As new feedstocks are identified, the properties and limits
specified here may require revision to ensure their continued suitability.
Biodiesel fuel and biodiesel fuel blends must have uniform properties throughout, to ensure a consistent
quality both prior to and after blending. High speed injection blending is preferred to splash blending as
a means to ensure uniform quality throughout the final fuel blend. The blending process and
confirmation of uniform properties is very important, especially when splash blending is used. Blenders
and consumers should check with their suppliers and request confirmation of feedstock and finished
product uniformity.
Biodiesel fuel and biodiesel fuel blends must comply with all legal requirements regarding labeling. Both
blenders and consumers will benefit from having accurate information about biodiesel content. Engine
and vehicle manufacturers will continue to evaluate these Guidelines for ongoing applicability to
increasingly sophisticated vehicle systems and components, which must comply with numerous
government regulations. The WWFC Committee will review and revise these recommendations as
necessary to reflect changes in engine and vehicle technologies, biodiesel production and marketing
practices and test methods.
1
Guidelines for B100 Blendstock for use in up to B5 Blends
EN 14103 mod
Ester content 96.5 min % m/m
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
Polyunsaturated acid
methyl ester (≥ 4 double 1 max % m/m prEN 15779
bonds)
Ester content
The fuel’s ester content indicates the amount of FAME in the fuel, and therefore, it is an indicator of the
fuel’s quality. A low amount of ester may indicate that unreacted compounds, such as tri‐glycerides, or
process related compounds, such as catalysts (KOH/NaOH) or methanol, remain in the fuel. Low levels
also may indicate contamination with non‐FAME compounds. These impurities may cause fuel filter
plugging, engine deposits or other problems. Local law may require measuring the fuel’s ester content;
ester measurement also can help prevent or minimize fraud under incentive programs.
Linolenic Acid Methyl Ester
This ester, which is inherent to certain feedstocks, contains three double bonds which make the
molecule highly unstable. Thus, these molecules oxidize or polymerize easily, thereby creating acids or
sludge.
Polyunsaturated acid methyl ester (≥ 4 double bonds)
These esters will rapidly polymerize and should be absent from the fuel to protect against sludge.
Limiting other polyunsaturated molecules with three or more double bonds will improve fuel stability.
Notes regarding test methods:
EN 14103 is valid for both methyl and ethyl esters but has a limited range when used for ethyl esters.
This test is being improved to cover more esters. Methods for measuring large esters with four or more
double bonds are under development.
Oxidation Stability:
prEN 15751 or EN 14112 as
Induction Period 10 min hr alternative
Oxidation stability is very important. In addition to oxidation stability as measured by Induction Period,
see discussion below related to change in Total Acid Number.
Oxidation stability is one of the most important properties because FAME oxidizes easily compared with
petroleum diesel fuel and produces reaction products that can damage the engine or vehicle. Fuels with
a high number of molecules with methylene groups adjacent to double bonds are particularly
susceptible to oxidation. The oxidation process begins as soon as the vegetable oil is created and
continues until the beginning of re‐esterification. Oxidation produces peroxides (hydro‐peroxides)
2
which undergo further reaction to form acids, which are themselves oxidizing agents. Molecules may
also polymerize and form gums, sludge or other insoluble compounds; unlike peroxides, which usually
disappear at some point during re‐esterification, polymers that form during oxidation do not disappear
and remain in the mixture. The oxidation reaction continues until the reactive sites or available oxygen
are depleted. The “Rancimat” test method, EN 14112 (or prEN 15751), provides an indication of the
amount of time (induction period) the fuel can be stored before the production of acids indicates the
fuel is becoming unstable.
Peroxides can damage or degrade plastics and elastomers, particularly at high temperatures. The acids
corrode metals used in vehicle and distribution fuel handling systems. The impact of acids on metal fuel
tanks is especially severe. Even light corrosion from carbonic acid salts will cause sticky deposits inside
the fuel pump and injectors. These metal and carbonic acids react again to form salts. These salts,
which are soluble in the fuel, pass through the fuel filter but then stick to the surfaces of the fuel pump
and fuel injectors. The salts also can form sludge‐like injector deposits. Polymers, sludge and other
insoluble materials formed during oxidation can cause fuel filter blockage.
Historically, petroleum diesel fuels have been successfully stored for extremely long periods without
oxidizing, but even low concentrations of FAME can reduce the stability of finished blends. A few cases
of lower oxidation stability than expected have been observed with biodiesel blends made with very low
sulfur petroleum diesel fuels; some theorize this change may be related to the type of processing
required to produce the very low sulfur levels.
Depending on storage conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity in the air space, presence of water, and
other factors), FAME that meets the specified limit at the time of retail sale should provide six months of
storage capability before unacceptable degradation of the FAME or blends occurs.
To reduce the potential for market problems, the oxidation stability of the blendstock must exceed the
recommended minimum induction period, and the finished fuel also must meet its own oxidation
stability requirement. If the oxidation stability of the blendstock is poor, the oxidation stability of the
finished fuel will be poor. Antioxidant additives can help achieve the recommended limit; research is
continuing into antioxidant types, effectiveness and dosing levels. When using antioxidants to improve
the oxidation stability, producers should add the antioxidants to freshly made FAME—or even during
FAME production—for maximum effectiveness. Due to fuel changes over time, fuel providers should
monitor the fuel quality and take steps to minimize degradation and avoid the use of degraded fuel.
Notes regarding test methods:
The provisional method prEN 15751 is known as the modified Rancimat test method for B100 and
biodiesel blends. When testing B100, test methods to measure insolubles such as polymers, sludge and
other substances (EN 12205 or ASTM D2274) must be modified to use glass fiber filters to avoid
degrading the filter media.
Iodine number indicates the total number of double bonds (i.e., level of saturation) in the mixture of
molecules. Opinions differ regarding whether the iodine number helps indicate oxidation stability,
where a higher iodine number represents lower oxidation stability. To the extent it does help indicate
oxidation stability, the iodine number may provide information about the fuel’s tendency to form
sludge, affect lubricant quality and/or cause corrosion.
*Limiting the iodine number to 130 max can preclude the use of certain feedstocks that are prominent
in different regions, especially soybean, sunflower and other unsaturated oils, but control may be
3
unnecessary if the fuel has good oxidation stability as measured by other methods. Measuring oxidation
stability only by the Rancimat method (EN 14112) may be inadequate, however, because this test only
evaluates the fuel’s acid forming tendency and cannot evaluate its tendency to form sludge. To bypass
the iodine number limit, FAME producers and providers must take additional steps, such as testing for
and limiting sludge formation or using methods to evaluate sludge forming tendencies, to prevent
problems. There are indications that exhaust aftertreatment technologies utilizing late post injection for
active PM‐trap regeneration may need a more stringent limit.
The limit recommended here represents the current opinion of vehicle and engine manufacturers, but
further research is needed to understand the relation of this property to engine performance and to
determine what iodine limits, if any, are necessary and sufficient for adequate stability.
ISO 6618
ASTM D664, D974
Total Acid Number 0.50 max mg KOH/g JIS K2501
Other: ABNT NBR 14448
Acid number is a measure of the acids in the fuel. These acids emanate from two sources: (i) acids used
in the production of the biodiesel that are not completely removed in the production process; and (ii) as
a byproduct from degradation by oxidation. The acids are measured in terms of amount of KOH
required to neutralize a gram of FAME. For biodiesel blends, the acid number will change as a result of
the normal oxidation process over time, and recent research has shown that this change is a good
indicator of B100 stability. If the fuel is not used immediately after purchase, buyers should monitor
their biodiesel fuel blends for changes in acid numbers, as an indicator of fuel degradation. The
presence of acids in the fuel can harm injection systems and other metallic components.
Change in TAN
Research suggests that measuring the change in total acid number is a good way to measure fuel
stability. The proposed limit for finished blends (only) is 0.12 mg KOH/g maximum after aging, following
the EN 12205/ASTM D2274 protocol at 115°C.
Notes regarding test methods:
EN 14104 is specifically designed for B100. ASTM D664, a potentiometric method, and ISO 6618/ASTM
D974, which are colorimetric methods, can be used on blends but results between the two methods
should not be interchanged. JIS K2501 can be used for both B100 and finished blends.
EN 14110
Methanol 0.20 max % m/m JIS K2536
Other: ABNT NBR 15343
Methanol/Other Alcohols
Methanol is a raw material used to produce FAME. Other alcohols, such as ethanol, also may be used,
producing fatty acid ethyl ester (FAEE), but there is limited experience in producing FAEE and with
selecting and applying an ethanol limit. Ethanol also can enter the product through contamination.
Alcohol remaining in the product, such as from incomplete reaction during production or contamination,
can have harmful effects: lowered flash point, decreased lubricity, corroded injectors and degraded
materials used in fuel distribution and vehicle fuel systems. Collectively, these potential problems raise
handling and safety concerns.
4
Notes regarding test methods:
These test methods do not measure other alcohols that may be present in the ester product, but a
preliminary investigation has shown that a small change to EN 14110 will allow ethanol measurement.
Glycerides EN 14105
EN 14105
Mono‐glyceride 0.80 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
EN 14105
Di‐glyceride 0.20 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
EN 14105
Tri‐glyceride 0.20 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
Glycerin (glycerol)
EN 14105/14106
Free glycerin 0.02 max % m/m ASTM D 6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15341
EN 14105
Total glycerin 0.25 max % m/m ASTM D 6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15344
Glycerides: Mono, Di, and Tri
Glycerides, which are high molecular weight reactants in the biodiesel production process, can remain
unreacted in the FAME after processing. They are undesirable because they can cause filter plugging,
especially at cold temperatures, and injector and engine deposits; they can also limit vehicle operability
over a wide range of conditions. Mono‐glycerides can lead to increased injector deposits. High mono‐
glyceride content has been linked to solid deposits in B5 where the fuel was stored in tanks under
Scandinavian winter conditions. At such low temperatures, a maximum limit of 0.40% m/m is
recommended. The limit may be revisited after investigations are complete. Di‐glycerides can lead to
filter plugging. Tri‐glyceride content is a good indicator of unreacted oils or greases in the biodiesel.
Glycerides can be controlled to low levels through the use of good operating procedures during
production.
Glycerin (glycerol), Total and Free
Glycerin, which is a byproduct of the chemical reaction that produces biodiesel, may remain in the fuel if
the ester is inadequately separated or washed. Glycerin also may separate out of the liquid during
storage after any methanol, which acts as a solvent, has evaporated. Once separated, the glycerin will
fall to the tank bottom and attract such polar compounds as water, mono‐glycerides and soaps that can
block filters, damage injectors, cause injector coking and other engine deposits, and otherwise make the
fuel incompatible with vehicle materials and reduce engine durability.
Glycerin can be controlled through the use of good operating practices during production.
5
Notes regarding test methods:
In finished fuel blends, petroleum diesel fuel components can interfere with the ability to directly
measure glycerin in the fuel. When an acceptable test method for glycerin in a fuel blend is available, a
limit value for blends will be established.
A new, simplified cold filtration test procedure related to some glycerides is in development.
Due to the presence of hydroxyl groups in the main ester carbon chain, the only method listed that is
suitable for use with castor oil‐derived FAME is the Brazilian ABNT NBR 15344.
Glyceride measurements can be used to calculate total and free glycerin.
EN ISO 3675
ASTM D4052
Density Report g/ml JIS K2249
Other: EN ISO 12185, ABNT NBR
7148/14065
Biodiesel density is usually higher than that of fossil diesel fuel, with the specific values depending on
fatty acid composition and purity. Most batches of FAME contain only about ten different molecules
with densities usually within a very narrow range. Contamination can significantly affect FAME density,
so this property can be used to indicate contamination by some unwanted compounds and to monitor
fuel quality.
EN ISO 3104
ASTM D445
Kinematic Viscosity@40°C 2.0 ‐ 5.0 mm2/s
JIS K2283
Other: ABNT NBR 10441
Kinematic viscosity is an inherent property of FAME’s different feedstocks that affects injector
lubrication and fuel atomization. Biodiesel fuel blends generally have improved lubricity; however, their
higher viscosity levels tend to form larger droplets on injection which can cause poor combustion and
increased exhaust smoke under certain operating conditions. At FAME blending levels up to 5 % by
volume, the suggested limits provide an acceptable level of fuel system performance for the finished
fuel blends and allow blending without changing the viscosity of the base diesel fuel. Adhering to the
limits will also help harmonize FAME quality.
For temperatures at or below ‐20°C, viscosity should be at or below 48 mm2/s to avoid potentially
dangerous loads on the fuel injection pump drive system.
ISO 3679
Flash Point 100 min °C
ASTM D93
The flash point temperature is the minimum temperature at which the fuel will ignite (flash) on
application of an ignition source under specified conditions. It is used to classify fuels for transport and
storage according to hazard level; minimum flash point temperatures are required for proper safety and
handling of the fuel.
Flash point varies inversely with the fuel’s volatility, and biodiesel’s flash point can decrease rapidly as
the amount of residual alcohol increases. Thus, the biodiesel flash point measurement helps indicate
the presence of methanol. Fuel providers must measure the biodiesel flash point prior to blending with
6
fossil diesel fuel; since the petroleum component’s flash point will be much lower, one cannot rely on
the blend’s flash point measurement to indicate the presence of methanol.
ISO 5165
Cetane Number 51 min ASTM D613
JIS K2280
Cetane number is a measure of the fuel’s ignition and combustion quality characteristics. Fuels with low
cetane numbers will cause hard starting, rough operation, noise and increased smoke opacity. Finished
blends should meet relevant WWFC category limits.
Water and Sediment / Total Contamination
The fuel should be clear in appearance and free of visible water and sediment/total contamination. The
presence of these materials can shorten filter life or plug fuel filters, which can lead to engine fuel
starvation.
Water accelerates oxidation, dramatically increases corrosivity and promotes microbial growth. Since
FAME is capable of absorbing significantly more water than petroleum diesel fuel, it is especially
important to dehydrate FAME during production and to minimize the potential to create free water
during blending or distribution. The level of water specified is within the solubility level of water in fuel
and, as such, does not represent free water.
Esterification and product refining processes, along with feedstock selection, tend to produce many
types of contamination, such as by soap. Poor fuel handling practices can introduce other contaminants
or compounds that are not soluble in FAME. Small amounts of such contamination will cause fuel filter
plugging and injector deposits and should be well‐controlled to prevent problems. If water is measured
independently from sediment, the fuel should also meet a separate Total Contamination limit.
Engine and fuel injection equipment manufacturers continue to develop fuel systems to reduce
emissions and fuel consumption and to improve performance. Injection pressures have increased
dramatically; current injectors operate at pressures as high as 2400 bars, and injectors with even higher
pressure capabilities are in development. Such levels of injection pressure demand reduced orifice sizes
and component clearances, typically ranging from 2 to 5 µm in injectors. Small, hard particles, which
may remain in the fuel that are carried into these engine parts, are potential sources of injector and
subsequent engine failure.
The recommended limits allow comparing measured results to a maximum level acceptable for proper
engine operation.
Notes regarding methods:
Measuring fuel particle contamination necessarily considers total mass, size and number of particles per
size class (i.e., particle size distribution). The ISO 4406 protocol provides a means of expressing the level
of contamination by size distribution. ASTM D2276 allows line sampling in the field. Whatever method
is used, glass fiber filters should be used instead of a membrane filter.
7
ISO 6245
Ash Content 0.001 max % m/m ASTM D482
JIS K2272
ISO 3987
Sulfated Ash 0.005 max % m/m ASTM D874
Other: ABNT NBR 984
Ash ‐‐ Sulfated and Other
Ash is a measure of the amount of metals and other inorganic contaminants contained in the fuel. Ash
precursors may be present in three forms—(i) abrasive solids, (ii) soluble metallic soaps, and (iii) residual
biodiesel catalyst; when oxidized during combustion, these materials form ash.
Ash has been linked to engine deposits and filter plugging, and metallic soaps can contribute to deposits
in the fuel system. Abrasive solids and biodiesel catalyst materials also cause increased wear of internal
fuel system engine components exposed to fuel after injection.
Diesel particulate filters (DPF), which began appearing in mid‐2000 to achieve extremely low particulate
emissions and stringent emission standards, are particularly susceptible to impairment from ash. All ash
forming compounds can contribute to the accumulation of material on these filters. Rapid accumulation
of ash requires more frequent filter maintenance and will reduce vehicle fuel economy.
The levels specified are considered acceptable for engine performance, and slightly less stringent limits
may be acceptable for vehicles without a DPF (see the Worldwide Fuel Charter for limits in Categories 1,
2 and 3). More stringent limits than shown above, however, may be necessary for optimal particulate
filter maintenance intervals.
Notes regarding test methods:
For the given methods, a large sample size (min 100 g) is needed to obtain precision to three significant
digits. More sensitive and precise test methods are needed to determine ash at the lowest levels.
Carbon Residue:
Ramsbottom, on 100% 0.05 max % m/m ASTM D4530
distillation residue
Carbon residue, which forms on combustion, is a source of particulate matter within the vehicle system.
This property serves as a measure of the tendency to form deposits on injectors and in the combustion
chamber and should be minimized.
Notes regarding test methods:
Sample should be distilled under vacuum to prevent polymerization. If distilled at atmospheric pressure,
the amount of residue will increase and may produce misleading results.
8
light rusting,
Corrosion: Ferrous Rating ASTM D665 Procedure A
max
Corrosion testing indicates potential compatibility problems between fuels and fuel system components
made of various metals.
Notes regarding test methods:
The rating is made after 3 hours at 50°C by comparing the sample to a standard.
EN 20846/20884
Sulfur 10 max ppm ASTM D5453 /D2622
JIS K3541‐1, ‐2, ‐6 or ‐7
Many governments regulate sulfur levels in fuel to assure compatibility with emission control systems
and to enable these systems to meet emission standards. Biodiesel blends may not exceed the
applicable maximum sulfur levels defined for petroleum diesel fuel; fortunately, most biodiesel naturally
contains less than 10 ppm sulfur. See the Worldwide Fuel Charter for additional discussion about
sulfur’s numerous adverse impacts and other limits that may apply in markets with less stringent
requirements.
Notes regarding test methods:
Use ASTM D5453 for fuels anticipated to have less than 20 ppm sulfur, for the best accuracy when using
ASTM test methods.
EN 14107
Phosphorus 4 max mg/kg
ASTM D4951, D3231
Phosphorus will be present in biodiesel at trace levels from phospholipid compounds naturally found in
plant oils, and larger quantities can sometimes be found as a result of the use of phosphorus‐containing
fertilizer to grow the biomass feedstock and inorganic salts that may be contained in used cooking oils.
Phosphorus can greatly impair the effectiveness of emission control systems. Its influence is cumulative,
which means that even very low levels in the fuel may lead to premature deterioration over time,
especially when an engine consumes a significant amount of contaminated fuel. The limit may be
lowered when better test methods are available.
Notes regarding test methods:
The ISO test method is applicable and accurate down to 4 ppm. ASTM D4951 is precise down to 0.05 %
by mass, +/‐ 10%; lower values may be measurable, depending on the sensitivity of the ICP instrument.
ASTM D3231, a method for measuring phosphorus in gasoline, may be acceptable because it uses
techniques that decompose the organic materials, so it is independent of the matrix. ASTM D3231 can
detect phosphorus at levels below 1 mg/L.
9
Alkali (Group I) metals (Na+K) 5 max mg/kg EN 14108/14109, EN 14538
Alkaline (Group II) metals (Ca+Mg) 5 max mg/kg EN 14538
Alkali metals (Na + K)
Biodiesel producers who use sodium and potassium to catalyze biodiesel production should remove
these metals before allowing the biodiesel to leave the production process. Residual alkali metals can
form deposits in fuel injection system components and poison emission control systems. Sodium and
potassium are also associated with ash formation.
Alkaline metals (Ca + Mg)
Biodiesel producers who use alkaline metals as absorbents during biodiesel production should remove
these metals before allowing the biodiesel to leave the production process. Hard water also can
contribute alkaline metals to the FAME, so producers should use soft or deionized water during
processing. Residual alkaline metals can form deposits in fuel injection system components and poison
emission control systems. Calcium soaps can cause injection pumps to stick.
Additional Properties
Consult the Worldwide Fuel Charter for recommended limits and test methods for additional
properties—such as cold temperature operability, injector cleanliness, biological growth and lubricity—
that require control in the finished biodiesel blend.
Good Housekeeping Practices
Blenders should manage blends according to the practices outlined in the technical report CEN/TR
15367. Producers should create B100 fuels that have the minimum properties identified in this
guideline at the time of delivery or blending. Blenders should evaluate finished products for uniform
blending levels and monitor fuel property changes over time including acid number, appearance of free
water, and microbial contamination.
Producers and blenders also should be aware that rags saturated with B100, perhaps during spill clean‐
up, may spontaneously combust and pose a safety hazard under certain conditions. Handlers should
consult their professional associations for further guidance.
Labeling
Vehicle and engine manufacturers design their products for compatibility with different concentrations
of biodiesel. These guidelines are for B100 used for blending at levels up to B5 only. Vehicle and engine
manufacturer concerns about biodiesel compatibility and quality increase as the biodiesel content
increases and therefore any blends greater than B5 dispensed from pumps should be labeled to identify
the blend.
10
Summary of Guidelines
Property Value Units Test Methods
EN 14103 mod
Ester content 96.5 min % m/m
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
Linolenic Acid Methyl Ester 12.0 max % m/m EN 14103 mod
Polyunsaturated acid methyl
1 max % m/m prEN 15779
ester (≥4 double bonds)
Oxidation Stability: prEN 15751 or EN 14112 as
10 min hr
Induction Period alternative
Iodine Number 130 max 1 g I2/100 g EN 14111
ISO 6618
ASTM D664, D974
Total Acid Number 0.5 max mg KOH/g
JIS K2501
Other: ABNT NBR 14448
EN 14110
Methanol 0.20 max % m/m JIS K2536
Other: ABNT NBR 15343
Glycerides EN 14105
EN 14105
Mono‐glyceride 0.80 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
EN 14105
Di‐glyceride 0.20 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
EN 14105
Tri‐glyceride 0.20 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15342
Glycerin (glycerol)
EN 14105/14106
Free glycerin 0.02 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15341
EN 14105
Total glycerin 0.25 max % m/m ASTM D6584
Other: ABNT NBR 15344
EN ISO 3675
ASTM D4052
Density report g/ml JIS K2249
Other: EN ISO 12185,
ABNT NBR 7148/14065
EN ISO 3104
Kinematic Viscosity@40°C 2.0 ‐ 5.0 2 mm2/s ASTMD445
JIS K2283
1
This limit may unnecessarily preclude certain feedstocks. Some engine technologies may need a more stringent limit.
For temperatures at or below –20°C, viscosity should be at or below 48 mm2/s to avoid potentially dangerous loads on the
2
fuel injection pump drive system.
11
Property Value Units Test Methods
Other: ABNT NBR 10441
ISO 3679
Flash Point 100 min °C
ASTM D93
ISO 5165
Cetane Number 51 min ASTM D613
JIS K2280
Water 500 max mg/kg (ppm) EN 12937
Water and Sediment 0.05 max % v/v ASTM D2709
EN 12662
Total Contamination 24 max mg/kg
ASTM D2276, D5452, D6217
ISO 6245
Ash Content 0.001 max % m/m ASTM D482
JIS K2272
ISO 3987
Sulfated Ash 0.005 max % m/m ASTM D874
Other: ABNT NBR 984
Carbon Residue:
Ramsbottom, on 100% 0.05 max % m/m ASTM D4530
distillation residue
light rusting,
Corrosion: Ferrous Rating ASTM D665 Procedure A
max
EN 20846/20884
Sulfur 10 max ppm ASTM D5453/D2622
JIS K3541‐1, ‐2, ‐6 or ‐7
EN 14107
Phosphorus 4 max mg/kg
ASTM D4951, D3231
Alkali metals (Na+K) 5 max mg/kg EN 14108/14109, EN 14538
Alkaline metals (Ca+Mg) 5 max mg/kg EN 14538
Trace Metals no addition ASTM D7111
12
Summary of Test Methods 3
(see main text for additional notes)
Property Units CEN/ISO ASTM JIS Other
Ester content % m/m EN 14103 mod ABNT NBR 15342
Linolenic Acid Methyl
% m/m EN 14103 mod
Ester
Polyunsaturated acid
methyl ester (≥4 % m/m prEN 15779
double bonds)
Oxidation Stability: prEN 15751 or
hr
Induction Period EN 14112 as alternative
Iodine Number g I2/100 g EN 14111
Total Acid Number mg KOH/g ISO 6618 D664, D974 K2501 ABNT NBR 14448
Methanol % m/m EN 14110 K2536 ABNT NBR 15343
Glycerides % m/m EN 14105
Mono‐glyceride % m/m EN 14105 D6584 ABNT NBR 15342
Di‐glyceride % m/m EN 14105 D6584 ABNT NBR 15342
Tri‐glyceride % m/m EN 14105 D6584 ABNT NBR 15342
Glycerin (glycerol)
EN 14105,
Free glycerin % m/m D6584 ABNT NBR 15341
EN 14106
Total glycerin % m/m EN 14105 D6584 ABNT NBR 15344
EN ISO 12185
Density g/ml EN ISO 3675 D4052 K2249 ABNT NBR
7148/14065
Kinematic Viscosity mm2/s EN ISO 3104 D445 K2283 ABNT NBR 10441
Flash Point °C ISO 3679 D93
Cetane Number ISO 5165 D613 K2280
Water mg/kg EN 12937
Water and Sediment % v/v D2709
D2276, D5452,
Total Contamination mg/kg EN 12662
D6217
Ash Content % m/m ISO 6245 D482 K2272
3
Test methods may be used with B100; consult method to determine if also applicable to blends.
13
Property Units CEN/ISO ASTM JIS Other
Sulfated Ash % m/m ISO 3987 D874 ABNT NBR 984
Carbon Residue:
Ramsbottom, on
% m/m D4530
100% distillation
residue
D665
Ferrous Corrosion rating
Procedure A
Sulfur ppm EN 20846/20884 D5453/D2622 K3541‐1, ‐2, ‐6 or ‐7
Phosphorus mg/kg EN 14107 D4951, D3231
EN 14108/EN 14109,
Alkali metals (Na, K) mg/kg
EN 14538
Alkaline metals (Ca,
mg/kg EN 14538
Mg)
Trace metals D7111
14